About us

We independently fund and support promising research in areas of great clinical need but where there is low investment, creating the conditions required to take the improvement of human health to new and exciting frontiers.

Mental health

At a glance

The Triple A study (Adolescents with Anorexia and Autism): A search for biomarkers

Lead researcher

Dr Kate Tchanturia

Institution

King's College London

Status

Live

Amount awarded

£163,747

Last updated

05/02/18

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A Medical Research Foundation-MRC funded study of adolescent anorexia nervosa patients with autism spectrum disorder symptoms when they first present for treatment.

The research aims to identify vulnerable patients, at an early stage, who may be unlikely to respond to current treatment for anorexia

A Medical Research Foundation-MRC funded study of adolescent anorexia nervosa patients with autism spectrum disorder symptoms when they first present for treatment. Given the overlap in symptoms of these conditions, is it thought that autism spectrum disorder symptoms may affect anorexia nervosa recovery.

The research aims to identify vulnerable patients, at an early stage, who may be unlikely to respond to current treatment for anorexia, and with the longer term aim of shaping individualised support and treatment strategies.

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Mental Health – Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are life-threatening mental illnesses that can start in adolescence and affect 15 per cent of young women and up to four per cent of young men. The number of people being diagnosed and entering in-patient treatment for eating disorders in England alone has increased at an average rate of 7% per annum since 2009. Eating disorders are complex and we are yet to understand why someone develops one or how best to treat them. A whole range of different factors influence the development of eating disorders including genetics, psychological, environmental, social and biological factors. We need a better understanding of the causes of eating disorders and jointly with the Medical Research Council we have funded research to develop this understanding.

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We fund and support the most promising health research wherever we discover great opportunities that are not being pursued. We use our donations responsibly and ensure we make the greatest impact where it is most needed.